eCommerce Network Design Manager - Hawthorn East

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: eCommerce Network Design Manager

Company: Coles Supermarkets Australia Pty

Location: Hawthorn East, Victoria, Australia

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Operations / Supply Chain Network Design

Date Posted: 2026-07-28

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the strategic design and ongoing evolution of Coles Digital's eCommerce network, encompassing in-store and automated fulfillment nodes, transport lanes, and Click & Collect operations.

• Translate high-level enterprise strategy into detailed network design roadmaps, ensuring alignment with business objectives and operational capabilities.

• Develop comprehensive end-to-end network scenarios that balance capacity, service levels, cost-to-serve, and resilience across fulfillment, middle mile logistics, and last mile delivery.

• Provide critical strategic and tactical recommendations to executive leadership, informing decisions on capital investment, catchment area adjustments, and service enhancements.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within the Digital team, specifically focused on the operational backbone of eCommerce. The emphasis on "network design" and "fulfillment" strongly indicates a Revenue Operations or Supply Chain Operations focus, aiming to optimize the efficiency and effectiveness of how online orders are processed and delivered to customers, directly impacting revenue and customer satisfaction.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the development and execution of the online network strategy, covering in-store fulfillment, automated fulfillment nodes, transport lanes, and Click & Collect services.

• Design and analyze comprehensive network scenarios, integrating insights from fulfillment centers, linehaul, cross-docking operations, and last-mile delivery.

• Formulate data-driven strategic and tactical recommendations for executive decision-making, capital expenditure prioritization, catchment area optimization, and service level improvements.

• Collaborate closely with the Finance department to build robust business cases supporting new facility acquisitions, automation investments, capacity expansions, and significant transport initiatives.

• Align and influence a broad range of stakeholders, including location planning, network development, property management, operations, customer propositions, last-mile logistics, and store optimization teams.

• Build and enhance the company's network strategy capabilities by developing frameworks, conducting benchmarking, creating playbooks, and providing coaching, while integrating competitor insights into strategic planning.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly outline a strategic operations role focused on optimizing the physical and logistical network for eCommerce. This requires a strong understanding of supply chain principles, financial modeling for business cases, and advanced stakeholder management within a large, complex organization.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• A relevant tertiary qualification in Supply Chain Management, Commerce, Operations Research, or a related quantitative discipline. Experience:

• A minimum of 3 years of progressive experience in network strategy, supply planning, network design, or a closely related operational role.

• Prior experience within the eCommerce or large-scale retail sectors is highly preferred.

• Strategy or consulting experience in supply chain or network design is considered a significant advantage.

• Direct experience in grocery eCommerce fulfillment or last-mile operational management is desirable. Required Skills:

• Demonstrated proficiency in end-to-end supply chain knowledge, with a strong understanding of middle-mile logistics, freight management, and distribution center fulfillment processes.

• Advanced capabilities in network optimization and design, utilizing specialized software such as Coupa Supply Chain Guru, AIMMS, or applying mixed-integer/linear programming techniques.

• Exceptional analytical and data visualization skills, with advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and business intelligence tools like Power BI or Tableau.

• Strong data storytelling and executive communication abilities, with a proven capacity to influence stakeholders without direct authority in complex organizational structures. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with GIS software, such as ArcGIS, for spatial analysis and network visualization.

• Familiarity with various fulfillment models and their operational implications for eCommerce.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for specific optimization tools (Coupa, AIMMS) and programming techniques (MILP) indicates a need for a highly analytical and technically proficient operations professional. The emphasis on "influencing without authority" highlights the importance of strong soft skills in navigating a large corporate environment.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a portfolio showcasing successful network design projects, including strategic roadmaps and their implementation phases.

• Include case studies that highlight quantifiable improvements in key operational metrics such as delivery cost reduction, capacity utilization, service level enhancement, and supply chain resilience.

• Provide examples of system implementations or integrations that supported network design initiatives, detailing the challenges and solutions.

• Present evidence of developing business cases for significant capital investments or operational changes, clearly articulating the ROI and strategic impact. Process Documentation:

• Showcase experience in documenting complex supply chain and fulfillment workflows, from initial concept to final operationalization.

• Provide examples of process optimization initiatives, detailing the methodology used for analysis, design, and implementation of improved operational processes.

• Illustrate the ability to establish performance measurement frameworks and conduct ongoing analysis of network efficiency and effectiveness.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Network Design Manager role, the portfolio should clearly articulate the candidate's ability to translate strategic objectives into tangible network designs and operational plans. Emphasis should be placed on quantifiable outcomes and the ability to manage complex projects from conception through execution.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Range: AUD $140,000 - $180,000 per annum, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

• Methodology: This estimate is based on market research for similar Network Design Manager roles in major Australian metropolitan areas (e.g., Melbourne), considering the "Mid-Senior Level" experience requirement (2-5 years) and the specialized technical skills (e.g., Coupa, AIMMS, MILP). Coles Supermarkets is a large, established ASX-listed company, suggesting compensation would align with industry benchmarks for such organizations.

Benefits:

• Flexible working options: Encourages a positive work-life balance with hybrid working arrangements.

• Office perks: Access to an on-site gym, fitness classes, free parking, BBQ area, mini-Coles supermarket, product sampling hub, and a school holiday program.

• Team member discounts: 5% discount on Supermarket and Liquor purchases (online and in-store) year-round, with additional double discount periods and exclusive hot deals.

• Reward through recognition: Participation in the 'mythanks' digital recognition platform, allowing points accumulation for gifts and gift cards.

• Learning and development opportunities: Access to diverse career development programs, job-specific training, and educational resources.

• Paid parental leave: Offered to permanent team members to support work-life balance.

• Investment in your future: Annual team member share plan for eligible employees to purchase Coles Group shares via pre-tax salary sacrifice.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, likely around 40 hours per week, with flexibility offered through hybrid working arrangements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on market data for similar roles in Australia. The provided benefits are comprehensive and typical for a large retail organization, offering significant value beyond base salary.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail (Supermarkets & eCommerce)

Company Size: Large (Coles Supermarkets is a top 30 ASX-listed company, employing over 115,000 team members across Australia). This scale implies a structured environment with significant resources and opportunities for impact.

Founded: 1914. With over a century of operation, Coles has a deep-rooted history and established presence in the Australian market, now actively transforming its digital and operational capabilities.

Team Structure:

• The role sits within the Coles Digital team, specifically in the Network Design department. This team works collaboratively across eCommerce, supply chain, property, and broader operations.

• Reporting to the Senior Manager Network Design, the role involves close collaboration with various functions including Finance, Location Planning, Network Development, Property, Operations, Customer Propositions, Last Mile, and Store Optimization.

• The structure emphasizes cross-functional partnerships to achieve integrated network solutions for online order fulfillment and delivery. Methodology:

• The team's approach is data-driven, utilizing advanced analytics and optimization tools to model and design network scenarios.

• Workflow planning and optimization are central to the role, focusing on balancing multiple competing objectives (cost, service, capacity, resilience).

• Automation and efficiency practices are key drivers for improving the eCommerce supply chain, informing decisions on new facilities and technologies.

Company Website: https://colescareers.com.au/au/en

📝 Enhancement Note: Coles' long history combined with its significant investment in digital transformation suggests a culture that values both established operational excellence and innovative forward-thinking. The size of the company offers scale and complexity, requiring strong collaboration and influencing skills.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is considered a mid-to-senior level position, requiring specialized expertise in network design and supply chain strategy. It involves leading strategic initiatives and influencing executive decisions, indicating a move beyond individual contributor roles into strategic planning and management.

Reporting Structure: The role reports to the Senior Manager Network Design, placing it within a specialized team focused on optimizing the physical and logistical infrastructure for eCommerce. This structure allows for deep specialization and mentorship from experienced leaders.

Operations Impact: The eCommerce Network Design Manager has a direct and significant impact on revenue by optimizing the cost-to-serve for online orders, improving delivery speed and reliability, and enabling scalable fulfillment operations. Strategic network decisions influence capital expenditure, operational efficiency, and ultimately, customer satisfaction and loyalty in the competitive eCommerce landscape.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization Advancement: Progress to Senior Network Design Manager, Head of Network Design, or roles focusing on specific areas like last-mile optimization or fulfillment center strategy.

• Leadership Development: Opportunity to lead larger teams, manage more complex projects, and take on broader strategic responsibilities within the supply chain or digital operations functions.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Potential to transition into broader supply chain management, operations leadership, or strategic planning roles within Coles, leveraging the deep understanding of the business gained from this position.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear pathway for growth within operations and supply chain management, particularly for those with a strong analytical and strategic aptitude. The impact on revenue and customer experience makes it a high-visibility position within Coles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at the Hawthorn East office, which offers a hybrid working model. This suggests a modern office environment designed for collaboration, with amenities supporting employee well-being.

Office Location(s): Hawthorn East, Victoria, Australia. This location is likely accessible via public transport and offers amenities typical of a corporate office park.

Workspace Context:

• The hybrid work arrangement implies a balance between remote work and in-office collaboration, fostering flexibility while ensuring team connection.

• The office environment is expected to be equipped with the necessary technology and tools to support advanced data analysis, modeling, and communication for network design professionals.

• Opportunities for interaction with cross-functional teams (e.g., operations, property, digital) are abundant, facilitating a holistic approach to network challenges.

Work Schedule: A standard full-time schedule (approximately 40 hours per week) is expected, with the flexibility to manage work hours effectively due to the hybrid model, allowing for focused work on complex analytical tasks and collaborative sessions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work environment and office perks suggest Coles promotes a balanced and supportive workplace culture, which is attractive to operations professionals who often manage demanding workloads.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your application and resume to assess alignment with the required experience and skills, particularly in network design and supply chain optimization.

• Technical/Analytical Assessment: Expect a case study or problem-solving exercise focused on network design principles, supply chain optimization, or data analysis using tools like Excel or Power BI. This may involve presenting your approach and findings.

• Stakeholder Interviews: Meetings with the hiring manager, Senior Manager Network Design, and potentially other key stakeholders (e.g., from Operations, Finance, Property) to assess your strategic thinking, communication skills, and ability to influence.

• Cultural Fit Interview: Discussion to evaluate your alignment with Coles' values, collaborative style, and ability to thrive in a large, dynamic organization.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your proposed solution, the tools/methodologies used, and most importantly, the quantifiable results (e.g., cost savings, efficiency gains, service level improvements).

• Showcase Process: Detail your approach to network analysis, modeling, and design. Include examples of how you translated business requirements into network blueprints.

• Highlight Collaboration: Demonstrate instances where you successfully partnered with different departments (Finance, Operations, Property) to gain buy-in and implement network changes.

• Tool Proficiency: If possible, include examples of dashboards, optimization model outputs, or visualizations created using tools like Coupa, AIMMS, Excel, Power BI, or Tableau.

Challenge Preparation:

• Network Modeling: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach modeling a complex supply chain network, considering various constraints and objectives.

• Scenario Analysis: Practice developing and evaluating different network scenarios (e.g., impact of new fulfillment centers, changes in transport costs, shifts in customer demand).

• Business Case Development: Understand the key components of a robust business case for capital investment in supply chain infrastructure, including ROI calculations and risk assessment.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio demonstrating tangible results and a clear understanding of network optimization principles will be crucial. The interview process will likely assess both technical acumen and the ability to communicate complex strategies effectively to diverse audiences.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Network Optimization Software: Proficiency with advanced tools like Coupa Supply Chain Guru, AIMMS, or similar platforms for network modeling, simulation, and optimization.

• Mathematical Programming: Experience applying mixed-integer/linear programming (MILP) techniques for solving complex network design problems.

• Data Analysis & Visualization: Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel (for data manipulation and analysis) and business intelligence tools such as Power BI or Tableau for creating reports and dashboards.

Analytics & Reporting:

• BI Platforms: Power BI or Tableau for creating interactive dashboards, analyzing network performance metrics, and reporting on key trends.

• Data Warehousing/Databases: Familiarity with data sources and structures that support network analysis (e.g., SQL, data lakes).

CRM & Automation:

• While not primary, understanding how CRM data (customer demand, order patterns) feeds into network planning is beneficial. Experience with automation tools in data processing or reporting can be advantageous.

• GIS Software: ArcGIS experience is a bonus, useful for spatial analysis of delivery routes, catchment areas, and facility locations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specialized optimization software and mathematical programming indicates a highly analytical and technical role. Proficiency in these tools is critical for success.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Driving efficiency and service improvements in the network to enhance the customer experience for online shoppers.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilizing advanced analytics and modeling to inform strategic network design choices.

• Collaboration & Influence: Working effectively across diverse teams to gain alignment and drive consensus on network strategies.

• Efficiency & Optimization: Continuously seeking ways to improve operational performance, reduce costs, and enhance the resilience of the eCommerce supply chain.

• Innovation: Embracing new technologies and approaches to evolve the network design strategy for future growth.

Collaboration Style:

• The role requires a highly collaborative approach, working closely with stakeholders across various departments to gather requirements, share insights, and build consensus.

• Expect a culture that values open communication, constructive feedback, and cross-functional problem-solving to achieve integrated network solutions.

• Knowledge sharing is encouraged, especially in developing best practices and frameworks for network strategy within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: Coles' stated commitment to "bringing our customers smiles" and "helping Australians eat and live better" suggests a customer-centric culture. The operations team likely embodies values of efficiency, data integrity, and collaborative problem-solving.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Competing Objectives: Navigating the inherent trade-offs between cost, service levels, capacity, and network resilience in complex supply chain designs.

• Influencing Stakeholders: Gaining buy-in and alignment from diverse internal teams and leadership across a large, matrixed organization without direct authority.

• Data Integration & Accuracy: Ensuring access to accurate, comprehensive, and timely data from various sources to support robust network modeling.

• Adapting to Evolving Market: Responding to rapid changes in eCommerce trends, customer expectations, and technological advancements in fulfillment and logistics.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Analytics & Modeling: Deepen expertise in network optimization techniques, software, and quantitative analysis.

• Strategic Leadership: Develop skills in executive communication, strategic planning, and influencing senior leadership.

• Industry Exposure: Gain in-depth knowledge of the Australian retail and eCommerce supply chain landscape, including competitor strategies and best practices.

• Cross-Functional Experience: Broaden understanding of related operational areas such as property development, last-mile logistics, and store operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to tackle complex, strategic challenges in a dynamic retail environment, fostering significant professional growth in supply chain strategy and operations leadership.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you developed a network strategy from scratch. What was your process, what tools did you use, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your methodology, data utilization, and quantifiable results).

• "How would you approach balancing cost reduction with improved delivery speed for our eCommerce operations? Walk us through your analytical framework." (Demonstrate your understanding of trade-offs and analytical rigor).

• "Imagine we're considering opening a new automated fulfillment center. What key factors would you analyze, and how would you build the business case for executive approval?" (Highlight your financial acumen and strategic planning capabilities). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Coles' digital strategy and its impact on your role as a Network Design Manager?" (Research Coles' recent digital initiatives and articulate how network design supports them).

• "How would you influence a Head of Property or a Senior Operations Manager to adopt your proposed network design recommendations, given they may have different priorities?" (Showcase your stakeholder management and influencing skills).

• "Describe a situation where you had to present complex data and recommendations to senior executives. How did you ensure they understood and acted upon your insights?" (Focus on your data storytelling and executive communication). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Key Projects: Choose 2-3 projects that best showcase your network design, optimization, and strategic recommendation skills, ideally with quantifiable results.

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly define the business problem, your analytical approach, the solutions developed, the tools used, and the tangible business impact (ROI, efficiency gains, etc.).

• Visualize Your Work: Use charts, maps, and diagrams to illustrate network designs, flow improvements, and key data insights.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Prepare to answer detailed questions about your assumptions, methodologies, and any challenges encountered during your projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to demonstrate both technical expertise in network modeling and strong business acumen in translating data into actionable, executive-level recommendations. The ability to articulate impact and influence stakeholders is paramount.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Coles Careers portal via the provided link.

• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume highlights experience directly relevant to network strategy, supply chain optimization, eCommerce fulfillment, and proficiency with the specified tools (Coupa, AIMMS, Excel, Power BI). Quantify achievements with specific metrics.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of 2-3 key projects that demonstrate your capabilities in network design, analysis, and strategic recommendation. Focus on quantifiable outcomes and your process.

• Research Coles: Understand Coles' current digital strategy, eCommerce operations, and market position. Familiarize yourself with their values and recent initiatives to tailor your application and interview responses.

• Practice Presentation: Rehearse presenting your portfolio projects and answering potential interview questions, focusing on clear communication, strategic thinking, and demonstrating operational impact.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.